Yoo Jae Hwan x Son Dong Woon – ‘Universe’ Album Review

DJ and producer Yoo Jae Hwan recently teamed up with our beloved Highlight (formerly Beast) members Son Dong Woon and Yang Yeo Sub to deliver a special collaboration album titled Universe. Despite Yoo Jae Hwan’s gaggy on-screen personality, the three track album is surprisingly heartfelt and sincere sounding. However, the consistency of the album was an issue with a mix bag of delighters and flawed pieces.

Track 1 – Universe

Universe is an instant mood lifter. The bright and peppy piano and bass sounds provide the perfect backdrop for Dong Woon and Yeo Sub’s energetic vocals. The liveliness of this funk pop collaboration reminds me of a Bruno Mars song, and certainly makes me want to get up and dance along.

Track 2 – The Alchemist

Dialing down the upbeat energy from the previous track, The Alchemist welcomes us with soft acoustic guitar strumming and Dong Woon’s tender vocals. This quiet and unembellished ballad number conveys much hearty emotions, but lacks a highlight focal point in the melody, making it sound a bit bland.

Track 3 – First Farewell

Following suit to The Alchemist, Dong Woon again opens this tender ballad with the accompaniment of gentle piano notes. Yet First Farewell falls prey to the same issues as The Alchemist — lacking a hooky climatic point despite the earnest vocals throughout the song. In addition, it ends rather abruptly leaving you feeling incomplete and wondering what happened.